Australia vs Ireland Preview & Prediction | 2026 Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup | First Round
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FIH Pro League champions back in 2024, Australia return to the World Cup, the tournament which they have won three times with every intention of making four, whilst Ireland look to play spoiler.
Kick-off date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – not televised / USA – USA’s matches will be televised live on CBS
How to watch online: UK – British home nation matches can be streamed live for free on Channel 4 Sport YouTube, while all matches can be streamed live on FIH Watch.Hockey / USA – USA’s matches can be streamed live on CBS digital platforms, while all matches can be streamed live on FIH Watch.Hockey
Australia vs Ireland prediction
Australia haven’t won the men’s FIH Hockey World Cup since 2014, which completed back-to-back world titles for the Kookaburras. Since then though, they have not tasted success and will be chomping at the bit to get back out on the field, beginning against Ireland on Sunday in a Pool C which includes Spain and South Africa.
Whilst complacency cannot be afforded, Ireland are a side who have never finished higher than 12th place at the World Cup and it’s unlikely that their defence will be able to contain the Australians for a long period of time. Any outcome other than Australia winning would be a surprise.
Australia vs Ireland tip: Australia to win
